Jenson Button Reflects on Illustrious Career as Full-Time Racing Nears End

Jenson Button is preparing to draw his full-time racing career to a close. The 45-year-old announced earlier this year his intention to step down, with the conclusion of the FIA World Endurance Championship serving as the culmination of a storied career. Button shared his reflections ahead of the 6 Hours of Fuji, the penultimate round of the 2025 season, and discussed the reasons behind his decision and the highlights of his extensive journey in motorsport.

Why it matters:

Jenson Button’s departure from full-time racing marks the end of an era for one of Formula 1’s most beloved and adaptable champions. His career, spanning multiple disciplines beyond F1, underscores a rare dedication to the sport. His reflections offer valuable insights into the mindset of an elite athlete transitioning from intense competition to a more family-focused life, while still keeping a foot in the racing world.

The Details:

• Emotional Farewell: Button described the final WEC races, including his last appearance in Japan—a country where he achieved significant success in F1 and won the 2018 Super GT title—as "very emotional." He expressed surprise at still racing competitively at 45.
• WEC Season Performance: In the 2025 WEC season, Button is experiencing his most successful campaign, currently ranking ninth in the drivers’ championship with Jota Cadillac teammates Earl Bamber and Sebastien Bourdais. The trio secured a career-best second place at the 6 Hours of Sao Paulo in July.
• Reasons for Stepping Back: Button cited family commitments, an expanding role with Sky Sports F1, and an increasingly busy schedule as primary reasons for his decision. He emphasized the need to dedicate more time to his family and acknowledged the demands of professional racing require a level of commitment he can no longer consistently provide.
• Endurance Racing Challenges: Button found endurance racing cars significantly more challenging to drive compared to F1 cars, due to less downforce and increased weight. He stated that managing these cars requires much harder work through corners, a contrast to the relative ease of driving an F1 car.
• Future Plans: While stepping down from full-time competition, Button has confirmed he will not retire completely. He remains open to guest outings in various categories, including NASCAR, suggesting his passion for racing will continue in a more flexible capacity.

Career Highlights:

• 2011 Canadian Grand Prix: Button hailed his victory at the 2011 Canadian Grand Prix as an "incredible achievement." Starting seventh, he won the 70-lap race in challenging conditions, attributing his success to strategic brilliance.
• 2009 Brazilian Grand Prix and F1 Championship: Winning the 2009 Formula 1 World Championship, clinched at the Brazilian Grand Prix, was a profoundly special moment. He vividly recalls crossing the finish line and witnessing the ecstatic reaction of his team, noting that a world championship win is on a "different level" than a race win.
• 2024 Rolex 24 At Daytona: Button also highlighted the 2024 Rolex 24 At Daytona as a significant race. He valued the learning experience from his team and the personal significance of racing at Daytona as a Rolex Testimonee, especially given it was only his second IMSA event.

What's next:

Button's final full-time race will be the 8 Hours of Bahrain in November. His transition away from full-time racing marks a new chapter, allowing him to balance family life with his media commitments and selective racing appearances. This shift will enable him to continue contributing to motorsport while pursuing other passions, ensuring his legacy as a versatile and respected champion endures.